How Long Does Teeth Whitening Last

If you're thinking about making your teeth brighter, you'll want to know if the investment is worthwhile. It's understandable; no one wants to waste money on something that won't work or will vanish quickly.

But, when it comes to teeth whitening, the answer to the question "How long does teeth whitening last?" depends on the type of whitening product you use and why your teeth lost their pearly whites in the first place.

How Our Teeth Become Discolored

When we are babies, our first teeth are perfectly white and healthy. However, as we eat and drink and build unhealthy behaviors, those same minor changes discolor teeth and potentially trigger dental issues.

Many of these issues can be avoided by practicing good oral hygiene and scrubbing away organisms that would otherwise stain teeth. Some people, however, have genetic issues such as weak tooth enamel or other causes that make tooth discoloration more likely.

You are unhappy with your current shade and want to know how to whiten teeth in a way that lasts, whether it is due to your daily coffee, red wine, or soda habits or another reason. In this guide, we'll go over your options, how each teeth whitening procedure works, and how to get the best results.

Breaking Down Over the Counter Products

There are dozens of whitening products on the market that promise a bright smile right away. But finding one that works and lasts is a different story.

The first thing you should look for in a whitener is the American Dental Association seal of approval (ADA). If you use the product as directed, the level of whitening agent in the product should be safe for your tooth enamel and gums.

When you're doing it yourself, it's easy to overdo or misuse whitening toothpaste or other products. But since users don't always understand the risks, they believe it's no big deal to leave whitening strips or trays on for a little longer than the directions specify.

The Dangers of OTC Whitening Trays and Other Products

When you use a whitening product, the ingredient that actually removes the stains on your teeth is a chemical. And we've been taught since childhood not to put chemicals in our mouths!

The whitening chemicals used in the majority of products are ADA approved. The active ingredient is either hydrogen peroxide gel or carbamide peroxide. To protect your enamel and gums, make sure you follow the instructions exactly.

How OTC Whitening Options Work

A high-quality whitening agent, such as these peroxides, removes surface stains in small doses. Depending on the strength of the product, your teeth whitening results will appear within a few hours or a few days.

However, because they are only dealing with surface discoloration, the whiter appearance can fade quickly.

Surface Stains Leave Easy, But They Come Back Fast

If you want to keep your teeth white, you must be very careful about what you eat and drink. Your bad habits, such as drinking coffee and red wine or eating sugary foods, will have to go.

Otherwise, at-home treatments, such as whitening strips or a whitening gel tray, will only be effective for as long as you keep your teeth clean, avoid discoloring habits, and practice good oral hygiene to remove stains.

Having Your Teeth Professionally Whitened

A professional whitening treatment is another option. These are done in-office during a dentist visit. Because the dentist has access to higher-grade whiteners, they can penetrate beneath the surface stains and into the dentin. The ingredients must adhere to strict sourcing guidelines, so you can be confident that you're receiving the best professional whitening treatments available when you visit the dentist.

Dentin is the layer beneath your enamel that causes stains on your teeth. An in-office treatment is the way to go if you want whiter teeth that last.

What Happens in a Professional Teeth Whitening Session?

When you go to the cosmetic dentist for professional teeth whitening, you'll notice that you have a brighter smile in about an hour. Sure, it takes some time out of your day, but the longer the teeth whitening lasts compared to over-the-counter products makes this more efficient.

There are various options available depending on which dental clinic you visit to have your teeth whitened. Some dentists provide laser teeth whitening services, while others use special polishing agents to whiten your teeth.

Your dentist will discuss your whitening objectives with you. There are usually around eight different shades of white teeth to choose from. The work for your cosmetic teeth whitening begins once a plan is in place!

What to Expect With In-Office Whitening Treatments

Whatever option you choose, it all begins with a dental cleaning. This step ensures that your teeth are polished and smooth, and that they are ready for the bleaching agents.

Protecting your gums and sensitive tissue from the bleaching agent will be the next step. This is a standard procedure that prevents the whitener from coming into contact with your soft tissue.

The laser teeth whitening treatment is a unique procedure that involves the application of a concentrated bleaching gel to your teeth. The laser heats the gel, which whitens your teeth.

How Long Does Teeth Whitening Last With a Professional Treatment?

This method is the most effective at keeping your teeth white for the longest period of time. Peroxide levels are low in mouth rinses, whitening pens, and whitening toothpaste products. You must use them for an extended period of time before you see results, and they can harm your teeth and enamel.

Strips and trays work faster, but once you stop using them, the surface of your enamel begins to discolor again.

Keep in mind that certain medications can cause internal tooth discoloration. If this is the case for you, consult with your dentist about your options. Attempting to whiten teeth that have become discolored as a result of medication does not always work.

Schedule a Cosmetic Whitening Treatment Today

If you're unhappy with your smile, it can have an impact on your self-esteem and many of your relationships. Find out what your options are by contacting your dentist. You might discover that a professional teeth whitening treatment is less difficult than you thought!